bisector: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal/Technical
Quick answer
What does “bisector” mean?
A straight line, ray, or line segment that divides an angle or a line segment into two equal parts.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A straight line, ray, or line segment that divides an angle or a line segment into two equal parts.
In a general mathematical sense, any line, plane, or point that divides a figure or an object into two equal (congruent) parts. Also used figuratively for a dividing principle or factor.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or use. Spelling conventions (e.g., 'centre' vs. 'center') apply to related text but not to the word itself.
Connotations
Purely technical, neutral in both dialects.
Frequency
Used almost exclusively in mathematical and technical contexts in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “bisector” in a Sentence
the bisector of [angle/line segment]to bisect [an object]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “bisector” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- To bisect an angle, you need a compass and straightedge.
- The line will bisect the circle into two semicircles.
American English
- To bisect an angle, you need a compass and a straightedge.
- The line will bisect the circle into two semicircles.
adverb
British English
- He cut the wood bisectorially, but it was not a clean split.
- N/A
American English
- He cut the wood bisectingly, but it wasn't a clean split.
- N/A
adjective
British English
- The bisector line was drawn in red ink.
American English
- The bisecting line was drawn in red ink.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rarely used. Could appear in technical reports on design or engineering.
Academic
Common in mathematics, geometry, and engineering textbooks and coursework.
Everyday
Very rare; used almost exclusively when discussing geometry.
Technical
Standard term in geometry, drafting, computer graphics, and technical drawing.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “bisector”
- Confusing 'bisector' with 'bisect'. 'Bisect' is the verb, 'bisector' is the noun (the thing that does the bisecting).
- Using 'bisector' to refer to dividing something into unequal parts.
- Misspelling as 'bi-sector' (hyphen is not standard).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
An angle bisector divides an angle into two equal angles. A perpendicular bisector divides a line segment into two equal parts at a 90-degree angle.
In standard Euclidean geometry, a bisector is typically a straight line, ray, or line segment. In more advanced or non-Euclidean geometry, the concept could be extended, but the core definition implies a line.
Rarely. It is sometimes used figuratively in literature or social sciences to describe a principle or force that divides something equally (e.g., 'a cultural bisector'), but this is highly technical and not common.
For an angle bisector, a compass and straightedge (ruler without markings) are traditionally used. For a perpendicular bisector of a segment, the same tools are used.
A straight line, ray, or line segment that divides an angle or a line segment into two equal parts.
Bisector is usually formal/technical in register.
Bisector: in British English it is pronounced /baɪˈsɛktə/, and in American English it is pronounced /baɪˈsɛktər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “N/A”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: BI + SECTOR = BI means 'two', SECTOR is a part. It's the line that SECTIONS something into TWO equal parts.
Conceptual Metaphor
Fair division or balance.
Practice
Quiz
In geometry, what is the primary property of a bisector?